With rising college expenses, some students are turning to an unusual solution to make ends meet — selling plasma. It’s fast cash for some of the city’s busiest young adults, helping cover everything from rent to textbooks. While it might sound like a scene from a sci-fi movie, this is the real deal and it’s becoming a lifeline for some.
For many students, managing finances means juggling part-time jobs, heavy tuition bills, and the cost of simply living. But for others, it means rolling up a sleeve and earning cash the unconventional way.
“It’s honestly one of the easiest ways to make extra money,” Jayden Moore, a student at Tallahassee State College, said. “I go twice a week when I have time between classes and I’ve learned to space out the days since you can only go twice a week. It covers my groceries and a few other small expenses.”
Jordan admits plasma donation wasn’t his first idea for income, but after seeing an ad promising up to $70 per visit, he decided to give it a try. Now, it’s part of his routine.
“It’s not glamorous, but neither is being broke,” Jordan said.
Plasma, the yellowish liquid in blood, is used to treat medical conditions like immune disorders and burns. Donating it involves having blood drawn, separating the plasma, and returning the red blood cells to the donor. The process takes about 90 minutes, which makes it ideal for students with tight schedules.
A local official from a plasma donation center, who asked to remain anonymous, says students are a key demographic.
“College students are healthy, they’re looking for flexible ways to earn money,” the representative said. “We see a significant number of donors from local universities, especially at the beginning of the semester or before breaks when students feel more financial strain.”
The official assures that the process is safe, provided donors follow guidelines. “We conduct thorough health screenings before each donation. Staying hydrated, eating well, and not over-donating are key to a positive experience.”
For students like Jordan, the immediate benefit is obvious — cash in hand. Donation centers often offer bonuses for new donors or for those who bring a friend, making it a tempting option.
But it’s not without its drawbacks. Some students report feeling fatigued or lightheaded afterward. There’s also the ethical question of whether plasma centers exploit financially vulnerable students.
“I’ve definitely felt dizzy after donating,” Maya Addams, a Florida State University senior, said. “It’s not terrible, but it’s something you have to prepare for. The money is great, but sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it.”
Addams also acknowledges the stigma around plasma donation. “I’ve heard people joke about being ‘plasma broke,’ but the reality is, a lot of us are just trying to get by. If this helps, why not?”
The increase in plasma donation among students reflects a broader issue: the growing financial pressure of college life. Tuition, housing and even basic necessities have become increasingly unaffordable, forcing students to find creative solutions.
For now, selling plasma remains a popular, if unconventional, side hustle for students in Tallahassee. And with the cost of living showing no signs of slowing down, plasma donation might be here to stay, a modern day hustle for the cash strapped college crowd.